Here’s a detailed Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet recipe that’s flavorful, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal. I’ll give a few variations too.
Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet
Ingredients (serves 4)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean or 80/20)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or mint
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Cooked rice, quinoa, or pita, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed. - Sauté the vegetables:
Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add bell pepper and zucchini, and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly tender. - Season:
Stir in oregano, thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and vegetables with the spices. - Add tomatoes:
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften but still hold their shape. - Finish with Mediterranean flavors:
Remove from heat and sprinkle feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs over the skillet. Squeeze lemon juice on top for brightness. - Serve:
Serve directly from the skillet over rice, quinoa, or alongside warm pita bread.
Optional Variations
- Mediterranean Beef & Spinach Skillet: Add 2 cups of fresh spinach at the end and let it wilt slightly before serving.
- Beef & Chickpea Skillet: Add 1 can (15 oz) drained chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
- Spicy Version: Add ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking vegetables.
✅ Tips:
- Use lean beef if you want a lighter version.
- You can substitute ground lamb for a more authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- Leftovers taste great the next day and can be reheated for lunch or dinner.
If you want, I can also give you a one-pan Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet with orzo pasta recipe that’s even heartier and ready in 30 minutes. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Do you want me to do that?
